Strong China, Russia ties may boost tourism

Tourism experts and industry insiders have voiced optimism about growth in tourism between China and Russia because of the two countries' strong economic ties, relaxed visa rules and geographical proximity.

In August last year, both nations resumed their visa-free travel policies for group tours.

China's policy allows Russians holding ordinary passports to stay anywhere on the Chinese mainland for up to 15 days in groups of between five and 50 people. Russia has the same policy for Chinese tour groups visiting the country.